Duluth Firefighters Commemorate 9/11 with Memorial Stair Climb

The Duluth Fire Department ran their first memorial stair climb Wednesday, the 18th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, honoring the 343 New York firefighters who lost their lives on 9/11.

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Stair climbers were set up in the lobby of the Duluth YMCA. Eleven Duluth firefighters participated in the event, which began with a moment of silence at 8:46 A.M., the time when the first plane hit the North Tower.

Two firefighters, during 45 minute shifts, climbed 110 flights on the stair climbers. The significant number represents the height of the Twin Towers.

Two Duluth firefighters begin their session climbing 110 flights on stair climbers at the Duluth YMCA.

WDIO/Alicia Tipcke

"It's a personal event to us as firefighters but also, that was an event that really changed our nation. So it's just a way for us to pay our respects and raise a little bit of awareness about the fallen firefighters as well," said Duluth firefighter Andrew Olson.

Olson also said he hopes to make this event an annual one, much like other cities throughout the country have.

Dressed in full response gear, including oxygen tanks, the firefighters carried gear totaling around 40-50 pounds. While they had the full 45 minutes, some completed the task in as quickly as 21 minutes. All serving as a way to remember and honor those who sacrificed themselves to save more lives.

Additionally, donations were accepted for the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial Fund. Two former Duluth firefighters, Bob Mills and Mike Gamache, will be honored at upcoming Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial September 21, in Colorado Springs. Click here if you'd like to donate.